Cattle Egret
Cattle Egrets travel across vast ranges and are typically found in warm and tropical environments. Covered in white feathers, with a pinky crown, breast and back, they are distinctive from fellow Egrets due to their much shorter bill. These birds travel far and wide with recordings as far north as Iceland, and as far south as Tasmania during migration.
IUCN Listing: Least Concern
Not at a risk of becoming extinct in the wild
Fact File
Native Range
Native to Africa, Asia and Europe but has spread to the Americas and Australia
Natural Habitat
Forests, grasslands and wetlands
Diet
Insects, crustaceans, amphibians, small birds and lizards
Life Expectancy
In the wild: 15 – 20 years.
In zoos: Up to 23 years
Breeding
Incubation period:
22 – 26 days. 2 – 5 eggs.
Group Name
Colony or Flock
Active Hours
During the day
Threats
Hunting, loss of habitat
Fun Fact
Cattle Egret are opportunistic feeders, and follow large animals around to catch insects. It is estimated that they gather 50% more food using only two-thirds as much energy when feeding with livestock.